Cultured astrocytes

In the brain, extracellular space is largely occupied by glia cells. One type of glia cells is called astrocytes. They have several functions. For example, they contribute tot he blood brain barrier by sealing capillaries; they take up compunds released by neurons; they support and regulate the number and function of synapses.

Image details

Image acquisition technique: confocal microscopy.
Guest contribution from our friends and colleagues at the European Neuroscience Institute (ENI – Goettingen).
Courtesy M. Stahlberg, C. Dean / ENI, CNMPB.